Jack Mac is a pop-up restaurant that has re-imagined and contextualized the uses for ramen in new, bold and innovative ways. The term “Jack Mac,” which refers to canned mackerel, was coined by inmates around the 1950’s. Because the food was lack-luster in many prison systems, Jack Mac became a high valued item. More than half a century later, Top Ramen has taken its place as a form of currency for these inmates. Our goal at Jack Mac is to inform the public about this overlooked issue by sharing the unconventional, yet delicious ways ramen is prepared in prison.
*All packaging and menu photos taken by Austen Hart Photography
